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On June 20th, 2024, the World Health Organization (WHO) joined UNHCR and other partners in observing World Refugee Day, focusing on the theme of solidarity with refugees and the need for inclusive health systems. According to UNHCR, over 110 million people worldwide were displaced by the mid-2023, with 40% of them being children and 75% hosted in low and middle-income countries. WHO is working to improve the health of refugees and migrants through several initiatives, including global advocacy, setting standards, generating evidence, fostering partnerships, coordinating normative work, translating research into practice, conducting health system reviews, training health workers, celebrating the power of storytelling, and exchanging knowledge and leveraging experiences.
Promoting Inclusive Health Systems: Solidarity with Refugees
The World Health Organization (WHO), alongside UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, and other partners, commemorates World Refugee Day 2024. This year’s theme, “Solidarity with Refugees,” emphasizes the significance of equitable health care for refugees globally. It underscores the need for all-inclusive health systems and universal access to quality care for everyone, irrespective of their migratory status.
According to UNHCR, by mid-2023, over 110 million individuals were forcibly displaced worldwide, with children making up about 40% of this number. Majority of these refugees are found in low- and middle-income countries. The WHO World report on refugees and migrants’ health provides crucial data that pushes for the inclusion of refugees in health-related decision-making processes. This approach enhances service quality and cultural competence.
WHO’s Approach to Refugee Health Promotion
Linking with the 2019-2030 Global Action Plan on promoting health for refugees and migrants, WHO collaborates with regional offices, Member States, and partners to advocate for refugees’ health rights. Some notable contributions include:
- The Third Global Consultation on the Health of Refugees and Migrants led to the adoption of the Rabat Declaration.
- WHO released the first global research agenda to address evidence gaps in refugee and migrant health.
- WHO performs regular health system reviews to drive informed and evidence-based long-term interventions, such as those seen in Jordan and Thailand.
- Training initiatives have been developed, such as the Global Competency Standards for health workers.
- The power of storytelling is celebrated, as seen in the WHO’s Health for All Film Festival.
- The Fifth Global School on the Health of Refugees and Migrants fosters knowledge exchange and collective learning.
A Collective Approach for Refugee Health Needs
A collective, cross-border approach is essential to address the health needs of refugees. This includes reshaping existing health systems to provide comprehensive services for both host communities and refugees. This approach, guided by principles of non-discrimination, equity, and inclusion, is key in fostering social integration. By doing so, we move toward creating a healthier, more equitable world.
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